Two national issues have recently become hot topics here in Carroll County. The Carroll County Democratic Central Committee believes very strongly that as citizens we must take a clear stand on these issues.

First, the CCDCC agrees wholeheartedly with Superintendent Stephen Guthrie's ban on Confederate and Nazi symbolism in our school system. As CCPS attorney Edmund O'Meally pointed out, the U.S. Court of Appeals, 4th Circuit has already determined the legality of a school system's right to ban attire that may cause disruption or may infringe on another's rights. From the testimony at Board of Education meetings, clearly the Confederate battle flag does both. As was pointed out by Mr. O'Meally, the intent of the person wearing the Confederate battle flag is not of concern. How that message is received is the issue. We know without a shadow of a doubt that people of color are offended. We know that students feel unwelcome and unsafe in a classroom with this type of symbolic attire. Four of the five BOE members voiced agreement with the superintendent, as does the CCDCC.

Secondly, the Central Committee will actively work to be sure that arming teachers in Carroll County Public Schools never happens. Educators across the country are voicing their disapproval of such an action. The financial, logistical and training burdens this would place on school systems would be astronomical. More importantly, permitting deadly weapons on school campuses is exactly the opposite of what is needed for schools to be safe. Funding school counselors, social workers and psychologists should be the front line for creating sustainable school safety. CCPS must continue to train staff and students for preparedness in the event of an emergency. Furthermore, we find it extremely irresponsible that anyone, from the president on down to our delegates in Annapolis, would endorse a policy that in essence militarizes our schools. Experts from law enforcement, the military and education agree such a plan would put our children in more danger, not less. For these reasons, the Carroll County Democratic Central Committee opposes any attempt to arm teachers. Schools must remain gun-free zones.

Don H. West

Westminster

The writer is chair of the Carroll County Democratic Central Committee seeking re-election.